Diagnostic Code 8519 · 38 CFR §4.124a
The long thoracic nerve controls the serratus anterior muscle, which holds your shoulder blade flat against your rib cage. When this nerve is damaged, your shoulder blade wings outward from your back, a condition known as winged scapula. This makes it difficult to push things, reach overhead, or lift your arm fully. Veterans may develop this from carrying heavy packs with improperly fitted straps, repetitive overhead activities, direct blows to the shoulder area, or surgical injuries during service.
| Rating | Criteria |
|---|---|
| 30% | |
| 20% | |
| 10% | |
| 0% |
Medical records documenting long thoracic nerve injury connected to service, Photographs showing winged scapula when pushing against a wall, Electromyography results confirming serratus anterior denervation, Range of motion testing for overhead arm elevation, Documentation of which side is affected and whether it is the dominant arm